Do you have the same breakfast every day? It may be a really healthy one, but having the same food every day can limit the variety of nutrients your body has access to. If you like having grains for breakfast, varying them can be quite helpful. The list below contains 4 whole grains I especially like along with the benefits of each.
Boring….
You may already be thinking that grains are dull. They can be, but I look at them as a platform for creativity. You can add fresh fruit, nuts, cinnamon, ginger and even a dollop of yogurt to the mix to make it absolutely mouth-watering and super-nutritious. The best part is when you start your day with something this nourishing, you won’t be feeling hungry and antsy for several hours afterward.
Read on for 4 grains I like and a quick summary of the benefits of each:
My Favorites
Whole Oats -
Often described as the heart healthy grain, oats contain a special kind of fiber called beta-glucan found to be especially effective in lowering cholesterol. It is gluten free.
Kamut -
An ancient Egyptian grain, kamut is in the wheat family - Soak 1/2 cup of Kamut overnight in 1 cup of water. Drain, rinse and put in a small pot. Cover with an inch of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes until water is absorbed. For nutrient value, it out performs modern wheat in protein, selenium, zinc and magnesium content.
Quinoa -
An ancient Peruvian grain, quinoa contains 8 g. of protein per serving. Make a hot cereal by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa and simmering it in 2 cups of water for 15-20 minutes. It is gluten free and is a good source of iron.
Brown Rice -
Use 1 cup leftover brown rice from last night’s dinner. Place in a small pot with 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 7 to 8 minutes until thickened. It is gluten free and a good source of manganese, selenium, phosphorus, copper, magnesium and niacin.
For more information on whole grains, visit the Whole Grains Council website.